Introduction
Stuttering or stammering is a complex challenge that can be immensely frustrating for those who experience it. Over the years, various techniques and strategies have been developed to help individuals overcome stuttering and achieve fluency in their speech. However, what happens when you’ve tried it all—when you’ve dedicated hours to practice, used Crutches, and still don’t experience the dramatic improvements you were hoping for? In this blog post, we will explore the idea of the “last resort” and offer guidance on how to overcome this hurdle in your journey towards fluent speech.
Fluency Comes in Layers:
Achieving fluency is not a one-size-fits-all process. It comes in layers, each with its own level of difficulty. These layers can be visualized as a pyramid, with the easiest situations at the bottom (usually involving family and friends) and the most challenging situations at the top (usually public speaking or high-pressure scenarios). To beat stuttering effectively, it is essential to tackle each layer one at a time. Trying to master fluency at all levels simultaneously can lead to constant setbacks and frustration. The key is to keep it simple and learn one thing at a time.
Patience is Key:
It’s crucial to be patient with yourself. Stuttering is often a deeply ingrained habit that has developed over many years. Breaking the memory-block and automatic-stutter-response takes time and persistence. A University of London study on habit formation revealed that, on average, it takes 67 days to establish a new habit. This duration does not even account for replacing a stuttering habit that took years to develop. So, it’s important not to get discouraged when immediate results aren’t evident. Many others have successfully overcome stuttering, and you can too with determination and perseverance.
Refuse to Stutter:
If you’ve diligently followed the recommended strategies, including Crutches and daily practice, and you still haven’t seen significant improvement in your speech, it’s time to become a “Speech Cop” for yourself. Being a Speech Cop means formally withdrawing your consent to stutter and refusing to stutter in any situation. It involves actively resisting the urge to stutter, one stutter-block at a time. When you feel the onset of stuttering, it’s essential to pause, take a count, and then restart with a focus on the Crutches you’ve learned. This refusal to stutter is a powerful technique that can work effectively for most individuals.
Exploring Self-Hypnosis:
If the techniques you’ve diligently applied are not producing noticeable improvements, it may be time to explore self-hypnosis. Self-hypnosis can be a valuable tool in reprogramming your subconscious mind to support fluent speech. To get started, consider having a Certified Hypnotist guide you through the process initially. The World Stop Stuttering Association (WSAA) may even be able to assist with free treatments; you can contact them.
Seek Guidance from Others:
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from those who have successfully beaten stuttering. If possible, arrange to connect with individuals who have overcome stuttering through Skype or other means. The collective wisdom and support from former stutterers can be invaluable in your journey toward fluency. In 2020, a group of ex-stutterers came together to help people who stutter, offering a unique and powerful anti-stuttering resource.
Withdraw Your Consent Daily:
Always remember that stuttering occurs with consent, whether conscious or subconscious. To overcome stuttering, you must commit to not stuttering, which is a substantial commitment. Your Crutches and auto suggestions provide you with various focal points other than word-fears, allowing you to withdraw your consent daily. Refusing to stutter, one stutter-at-a-time, is the key to success and the tipping point in defeating stuttering.
Conclusion:
As Lao Tzu wisely stated, “The longest journey begins with the first step.” Overcoming stuttering is indeed a journey that requires dedication, patience, and a commitment to change. By following the suggested steps, embracing the role of a Speech Cop, exploring self-hypnosis, and seeking support from those who have succeeded, you can begin your journey toward fluent speech. With persistence and a refusal to quit, you will beat stuttering; it’s only a matter of time. So, take that first step, and keep moving forward. You can and will win the battle against stuttering.
